With its 52,000-capacity and steep stands, ABSA Stadium in Durban is one of the most imposing stadiums in South African rugby.

Traditionally known as Kings Park, the stadium was renamed for sponsorship purposes when financial services group ABSA bought the naming rights. Whatever the name the stadium has hosted some memorable moments in South African rugby, not least the Springboks' rain-drenched World Cup semi-final win over France in 1995.

However, it was the British and Irish Lions who took the spoils in 1997 when Jeremy Guscott's late drop-goal won the Test series. This was the second time ABSA Stadium had hosted an international between the Lions and South Africa, the first time being in 1962 and the ground has been chosen to host the first Test in 2009.

There has been a stadium on the site since 1891 and there was a major rebuild in 1990. Super 14 franchise The Sharks play their home games at ABSA Stadium, as does Natal's Currie Cup side and the Golden Arrows Premier League football team.

But despite undergoing a refurbishment that will take capacity up to 60,000, ABSA Stadium will not see football action in the 2010 World Cup. This will take place instead at the adjacent Moses Mabhida Stadium currently under construction next door. However, with a combined capacity of 135,000 ABSA Stadium will be part of one of the most impressive sports complexes in the world.